This week's Community Gems segment, sponsored by the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, will feature the college itself.
I share how it's a place that meets students where they are, as their footprint across the region has grown with the colleges' existence.
Emily Ponce is a contractor by day and a student at night.
"It's nice to know you have so many different locations where you can go to classes for this school," said Ponce.
The business student is working on completing her associate degree at the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College.
This Erie County location off West Ridge Rd. opened in 2021. It is one of 24 locations the college has in 10 counties across northwestern Pa.
The northern reach goes from the Erie area, and into Tioga County.
Also referred to as NPRC, the school dates back to 2009 when a consortium formed with the support of legislators.
"They realized that this large geographic area didn't have access to a community college," said Susan Snelick.
In 2014, a board of trustees was seated. The college's current president, Susan Snelick was on that original board, with a mission to provide students, affordable, accessible education.
"Because most of them are living in rural regions and they don't have access to transportation," said Snelick. "So, we want to make sure our education is close to home."
While the administrative offices are located in Warren, many of the course offerings are in high schools across the region.
And those offerings include 5 associate degrees. The two year courses are:
Workforce development options are also offered, and could change based on the needs of regional employers.
"So, right now you could participate in HVAC, medical coding, child development association," said Snelick. "We have CDL courses running."
Classrooms can be are specifically geared to programs, while others allow students to virtually connect with the help of a proctor setting, up rooms and the different sites.
"The prices are very good," said Ponce. "They have their own financial aid that will help you, not only with your schooling tuition, but your books."
And the ??Northern Pennsylvania Regional College's status is a candidate of accreditation status.
NPRC remains a growing educational gem in our region.
The college continues to adapt to community needs, with plans to include offerings in the healthcare and technology fields.